I have looked thru several pages,the conclusion is that these spots can be the result of grass mites, allergies, or acne (as in human adolescence). The impression I get is that no one really knows. If any one has a specific treatment that actually works, I would be grateful. Max has several of these flaky spots (sometimes with puss). They have occurred days after extensive nibbling at his right paw and at the underside of his tail. The vet came to the conclusion that his anal glands needed relieving. This was done manually. The spots are increasing in number on the underside of his body and on his chest. Max is a Cavalier King Charles, one year ten months.

I have also seen this type of spot due to food allergy, also mite and flea allergies. It is the right time of year for it to be caused by harvest mites which live in long grass. I can't say I have ever heard of glands being the problem.

Thanks Polly, The spots are beginning to heal and decrease in number. Although 'school's stilll out' on this one, the spots being the results of grass mites is a strong option. We have just finished our camping holiday and Max had managed to find lots of long grass, though if I see him near long grass on our walks, I usually carry him since he can't bear not to see what's going on!